In September 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor included Congolese cobalt on a list of goods possibly linked to forced or child labor, prompting concern among local authorities about potential impacts on investment. Although the DRC continues to lead global cobalt production, issues with labor practices remain prevalent.
In September, the U.S. Department of Labor designated cobalt sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a product potentially linked to forced or child labor practices. This designation has sparked significant concern among Congolese authorities and civil society groups, particularly as it poses a threat to the investment climate in the country, which is the preeminent global producer of cobalt. The DRC achieved a production level of 170,000 tons of cobalt in 2023, reinforcing its leading position in the market. However, there are still apprehensions regarding the sustainability of this status. In a recent statement, the spokesperson for the Congolese government expressed regret over the U.S. decision, indicating that it fails to acknowledge the advancements made within the cobalt supply chain. The spokesperson also called upon international partners to provide enhanced technical and financial assistance to support ongoing improvements in the sector.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is the largest producer of cobalt in the world, a mineral that is essential for the manufacture of rechargeable batteries, including those used in electric vehicles and smartphones. The industry has faced scrutiny due to reports of child labor and poor working conditions in artisanal mining sectors. The U.S. Department of Labor’s inclusion of DRC cobalt on its watchlist draws attention to these serious ethical concerns, prompting the local government to respond by emphasizing its commitment to reforming and improving the cobalt supply chain to ensure responsible sourcing. This situation underscores the critical interplay between global demand for cobalt and the socio-economic realities within the DRC.
The recent classification of Congolese cobalt by the U.S. Department of Labor as potentially produced with forced or child labor has raised significant concerns among local authorities and stakeholders. While the DRC remains the world’s leading cobalt exporter, there is an urgent need for improvement in labor practices within the supply chain to ensure compliance with international standards. The Congolese government seeks to highlight its progress and calls for increased support from international partners to bolster its efforts in addressing these issues.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
